New York City has sights and attractions for all types of travelers to enjoy. Kids big and small will love these 15 fun places to go in NY for families.
15 family-friendly New York City attractions
- Statue of Liberty
Spyarm/Shutterstock.com One of the most fun places to go in NY is the State of Liberty. Check out the view from the top, and then ride the ferry to Ellis Island to see the immigration museum.
- New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden has a 50-acre forest with some of the oldest trees in the city and a kids’ area with hands-on activities.
- The High Line
The High Line is an urban greenway built over a historic railway. It has a nice view, a bit of history and kids are free to run and play.
- Coney Island
Goofyfoottaka/Shutterstock.com Families have enjoyed going to Coney Island for nearly a century to enjoy rides, shows, games and classic hot dogs.
- Central Park
Walk, run, play or lay down a blanket for an afternoon picnic in Central Park — an oasis in the middle of the city.
- Teardrop Park
Teardrop Park features large boulders to climb, stone water features and steel slides that all have a natural rather than industrial look.
- Staten Island Ferry
Albert Pego/Shutterstock.com The State Island Ferry has free admission — a plus for families. The 25-minute ride offers impressive views of the city and isn’t so long that the kids get restless.
- Museum of Modern Art
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a cultural experience filled with drawings, paintings, photography, film and free interactive programs for families.
- Children’s Museum of Manhattan
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is five stories of fun and educational activities for kids featuring several permanent and temporary exhibits.
- Bronx Zoo
Evantravels/Shutterstock.com Home to more than 4,000 animals in a 265-acre park, the Bronx Zoo is a must-visit for any animal-loving family.
- New York City Fire Museum
The New York City Fire Museum is housed in an old fire station. Kids learn about their heroes going back all the way to the 18th century.
- New York Hall of Science
The New York Hall of Science has more than 450 hands-on exhibits and activities, including a playground and miniature golf.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
Pisaphotography/Shutterstock.com The Brooklyn Bridge’s 85-acre park offers a great view of the bridge and Manhattan with tons of space for kids to run and play.
- Chelsea Piers
Chelsea Piers is an indoor sporting space where families can climb, bounce and play. Visitors can enjoy year-round ice skating, and there’s a designated play area for kids under four.
- South Street Seaport
Visit the piers at South Street Seaport to explore the ships docked at the port. If you’re there between the months of March and October, you can even go out for a ride on one of the historic ships.